MAHARERA Collabs with ASCI to Identify Non-Compliant Real Estate Developers

In a significant move towards enhancing transparency and accountability in the real estate sector, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MAHARERA) has entered into a collaboration with the Advertising Standards Council of India (ASCI). The partnership aims to identify and address non-compliance issues among real estate developers, reinforcing regulatory measures and ensuring adherence to established standards.

The collaboration between MAHARERA and ASCI is designed to scrutinize advertising content and promotional materials used by real estate developers. By leveraging ASCI’s expertise in advertising standards, the initiative seeks to identify instances of non-compliance with regulations and ethical standards within the real estate advertising space.

The partnership is expected to empower regulatory authorities to take corrective actions against developers found in violation of advertising norms. This proactive approach aligns with MAHARERA’s commitment to creating a fair and transparent real estate market by holding developers accountable for accurate and responsible advertising.

As the real estate sector continues to evolve, the collaboration with ASCI provides a mechanism to ensure that consumers receive accurate and reliable information about property offerings. The initiative also contributes to the overall credibility of the real estate industry by addressing concerns related to misleading advertising and promoting a culture of responsible marketing practices.

Stakeholders, including homebuyers, real estate developers, and industry observers, will closely monitor the outcomes of this collaboration and the impact it has on promoting transparency in the real estate advertising domain. MAHARERA’s partnership with ASCI is a noteworthy step in enhancing consumer protection and reinforcing ethical standards within the real estate sector in Maharashtra.

Source: https://www.constructionworld.in/latest-construction-news/real-estate-news/maharera-collabs-with-asci-to-identify-non-compliant-real-estate-developers/51155

MahaRERA Simplifies Registration Process

In a significant move, Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MaharERA) has streamlined the registration process for builders with over 50 housing units. The initiative aims to simplify the administrative procedures, making it more convenient for large-scale developers to comply with regulations.

Under the new guidelines, builders overseeing projects with more than 50 housing units can now complete their registration at their doorstep, eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. This progressive step by MaharERA aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote transparency and efficiency in the real estate sector.

The simplification of the registration process is expected to benefit both builders and homebuyers. Builders will experience a more streamlined and efficient registration, saving time and resources. On the other hand, homebuyers can anticipate quicker approvals and enhanced accountability from developers.

This move comes at a crucial time for the real estate industry, as it navigates challenges and adapts to changing market dynamics. By reducing bureaucratic complexities, MaharERA aims to boost the overall growth of the sector, attracting more investments and fostering a conducive environment for real estate development.

Source: https://www.constructionworld.in/latest-construction-news/real-estate-news/maharera-simplifies-registration-process/50975

Centre asks states to follow ‘Gujarat model’ for recovery of dues in case builders defy Rera orders

Amid rising instances of builders not complying with orders passed by Real Estate Regulatory Authorities (Rera), the housing ministry has advised state governments to follow the “Gujarat model”, which has an effective recovery mechanism and appoints officers under the state laws for retrieving the dues. Gujarat Rera has appointed two officers vested with all the powers for execution of recovery warrant orders.

It has also notified detailed execution proceedings, which provides for arrest and detention. There have also been suo moto proceedings by the authority issued in some cases for attachment of the property which has ensured promoter paying the penalty with interest. The ministry has also advised states to designate additional district magistrates or additional collectors as “revenue recovery officers” for enforcement especially in districts where the pendency of such cases is high.

Recovery warrant orders are issued against errant developers for not completing a project. These warrants are forwarded by the regulators to collectors for attachment of properties and recover the dues. The issue of non-compliance of orders passed by regulators came up at a recent meeting chaired by Union housing secretary Manoj Joshi. As per the minutes of the meeting issued on Tuesday, the ministry has written to states along with the recovery model being implemented by the Gujarat Rera. It sought an update on action taken on the advisory as well.

FPCE, an umbrella homebuyers group, which had studied the recovery model of different RERAs and suggested the adoption of Gujarat model, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, welcomed the Centre’s move. “Homebuyers pan India are suffering as regulatory authorities are unable to get their orders enforced. Homebuyers are running pillar to post to get a refund even though they have orders in their favour for refund from authorities. Now since the ministry has written to states, we hope state regulators will adopt the recommendations to give relief to homebuyers,” said Abhay Upadhyay, president of FPCE.

As per the minutes of the meeting, Abrar Ahmed, principal adviser to UP RERA cited how they have recovered over Rs 800 crore in 4,000 recovery certificates from builders whose projects were launched from 2012 to 2014. He suggested that a provision may be made in Rera, similar to the provisions existing in the income tax law wherein if the recoveries are not possible from assets of the company or the project, the regulator can pass a special order holding the director accountable for the payment of the dues.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/centre-asks-states-to-follow-gujarat-model-for-recovery-of-dues-in-case-builders-defy-rera-orders/articleshow/107467716.cms

MahaRERA To Launch An Improved Portal In February

In a move to enhance transparency and efficiency in the real estate sector, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) is gearing up to launch its new regulatory portal, MahaRERA Complaint and Regulatory Integrated Technology Implementation (MahaRERA CRITI), in February 2024. The upgraded website aims to simplify the home purchasing process for both homebuyers and developers, offering a more user-friendly experience.

Streamlined Grievance Redressal:

MahaRERA CRITI will facilitate easy navigation for users, providing a streamlined grievance redressal process. The portal will include a dedicated section called ‘project health summary,’ offering critical project-related information, including the current status, to existing and potential customers. This feature aims to enhance transparency in ongoing projects.

Efficient Document Upload for Developers:

The new platform will also simplify the document submission process for developers, who are required to file quarterly reports (Forms 1, 2, and 3) and an annual report (Form 5). This enhancement is expected to make the submission of statutory information smoother and more efficient.

Temporary Unavailability of Current Website:

During the transition to the new system, the current MahaRERA website, which has been operational for five years since the implementation of the RERA Act in the state, will be temporarily unavailable for a brief period due to technical reasons.

Improved User Experience:

The initiative to upgrade the website aligns with MahaRERA’s commitment to adapt to the evolving property market scenario. The new features aim to offer a more user-friendly experience, catering to the needs of homebuyers and developers alike.

The MahaRERA-CRITI website is expected to be fully operational by the end of February, heralding a new era of efficiency and transparency in the real estate regulatory landscape.

Source: https://timesproperty.com/article/post/maharera-to-launch-improved-portal-in-feb-blid6650

State nominates WBRERA website for E-Governance 2024 Award

The West Bengal Real Estate Regulatory Authority (WBRERA) website has been selected for nomination by the committee headed by the state chief secretary for the national awards for E-Governance 2024. This is being considered a significant achievement given that the website began functioning from January 31, 2023 and is yet to complete a year.

“The WBRERA website (www.rera.wb.gov.in) has set an example in registration of real estate projects, receipt of complaints and its disposal, and ensuring good revenue through penalty for violation of orders passed by WBRERA authority,” said a senior official of the Housing department.

About 1348 real estate projects were registered on the website. Total number of registered real estate agents is 348. About 546 complaints were received, 190 of them disposed, 354 are under process and two were rejected. The e-governance cell of the department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms (PAR) has written to the Housing department for necessary measures for online submission of the nomination through the NCeG (National Conference on e governance) portal. “Our efforts in creating awareness among people through advertisements in different mediums deserve special mention,” the official added. Promoters need to compulsorily register their real estate projects with the WBRERA authority through its website (www.rera.wb.gov.in) if the area of land to be developed is more than 200 sqm or if the number of flats/units, are more than six with payment of requisite registration fees. No developer shall advertise, market, book or sell any real estate project without prior registration of the same with the WBRERA authority. Apart from complaints of fleecing buyers or failing to deliver houses on time, there are instances of developers refusing to hand over completion certificates (CC) even after the party has checked into their flat. If the aggrieved person lodges a complaint with the WBRERA website, there are provisions for imposing huge penalties, stop construction work for the project. Last year, the e- governance award of the centre was bagged by the Panchayats and Rural Development department for online tax collection and trade license issuance and renewal.

Source: https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/state-nominates-wbrera-website-for-e-governance-2024-award-549667

‘One project, one MahaRERA no.’ to protect home buyers

MahaRERA has come out with ‘one standalone project, One MahaRERA number’ policy to safeguard the interests of home buyers. Under this policy, the promoters while applying for a new registration need to submit an undertaking stating that the proposed project does not have any MahaRERA registration number for the full project or part of it or any pending application.

The policy is aimed at preventing home buyers from being cheated after instances of developers obtaining two or more MahaRERA registration numbers for the same or part of a real estate project came to light. However, in the case of a project on a large plot, developers will be allowed to obtain separate registration numbers for various phases. Common or special amenities such as recreation facilities, playground, parking, internal road, swimming pool, club house and gymnasium need to be categorically and unambiguously specified for every phase of the project in the application for a new MahaRERA registration number.

According to MahaRERA, promoters apply for registration of their project to be executed on a particular plot of land even when there is a subsisting pending application for registration of a real estate project on the same project land or part of land or when there already exists a real estate project registered with MahaRERA being executed on the very same project land or part of land. There also have been instances where the landowner has contracted with more than one promoter.

Where development is being carried out in a large plot or a layout and MahaRERA registration is sought for buildings, the developer cannotamend amenities such as recreation ground, parking, internal roads, gymnasium and swimming pool as well as public amenities such as amenity plot in the layout already registered with MahaRERA. Any reservation on the plot as declared by authorities can’t be changed without approval of authorities and consent of allottees.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/maharera-implements-one-project-one-registration-number-policy-to-safeguard-home-buyers/articleshow/106942154.cms

Haryana RERA advises buyer to not invest in projects without RERA registration

The Gurgaon bench of Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority (HARERA), has advised the real estate buyers to not book properties in projects that are not registered with RERA. The authority said sale and purchase of properties in unregistered real estate projects is not allowed under the RERA Act of 2016. “If any person is facilitating sale purchase in unregistered projects through advertisement or by any other means that is a violation of the Act,” said the authority. The authority said that promoters should discourage advertising their projects before RERA registration as it is an offence and punishable under the law. Section 3 of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 says advertisement of unregistered real estate projects in any capacity lays down stringent punishment for such advertisements.

Similarly, Section 9 of the RERA Act, says a person has to register with the RERA before facilitating sale purchase into registered projects. The authority has noted many unregistered agents are using social media as a tool to advertise unregistered real estate projects in violation of the RERA Act 2016, which is a punishable offence. “People should not invest in any unregistered real estate project as they may be cheated through false promises .The real estate promoters and agents should work, act, and offer sale purchases in accordance with the RERA Act only,” said Arun Kumar, Chairman RERA Gurugram.

Source: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/property-/-cstruction/haryana-rera-advises-buyer-to-not-invest-in-projects-without-rera-registration/articleshow/106705521.cms

MahaRERA Mandates Certification For Real Estate Agents: Effective January 1, 2024

In a significant move to enhance transparency and professionalism in the real estate sector, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has made it mandatory for real estate agents to possess a valid certificate from the authority to operate. This directive comes into effect from January 1, 2024.

New Certification Requirement
MahaRERA’s decision applies to both new agents seeking registration and existing agents renewing their registration. The move is part of the authority’s efforts to address challenges faced by agents who often operate without formal education or training.

Strict Actions for Non-Compliance
MahaRERA has warned that non-compliance with the new regulation, including conducting real estate transactions without a MahaRERA certificate, will result in stringent actions. This measure aims to ensure that agents possess essential knowledge about the laws, rules, regulations, and procedures related to property sales.

Training and Certification Initiatives
The regulatory body had earlier mandated training and certification for agent registrations and renewals, with around 8,000 agents having qualified through three examinations conducted until now. Despite multiple extensions, some agents were yet to undergo the mandated training.

eadline for Compliance: January 1, 2024
MahaRERA has now made it clear that starting from January 1, 2024, new agents will not be allowed to register or renew without a MahaRERA certificate. The newly implemented regulations also encompass individuals affiliated with developers and those engaged in related responsibilities.

Emphasis on Transparency and Compliance
MahaRERA emphasises that these measures are actively implemented to foster a more transparent and compliant real estate sector. Developers are expected to mention the names of trained agents on their portal to ensure smooth transactions.

Conclusion
The certification mandate by MahaRERA signifies a pivotal step towards elevating industry standards and ensuring that real estate agents possess vital knowledge about the RERA Act provisions. Effective January 1, 2024, this move aims to create a more transparent and trustworthy real estate ecosystem, ultimately benefiting consumers in their decision-making process.

Source: https://timesproperty.com/news/post/maharera-mandates-certification-for-real-estate-agents-blid6383

RERA project registrations reach 1,16,117; up 63% since 2021

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) has experienced a substantial surge in project registrations, marking a notable 63 per cent increase, reaching a total of projects as of November 2023. This surge is a significant leap from the approximately 71,307 projects registered by the end of November 2021, according to data from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Maharashtra emerged as the leader in project registrations, boasting 42,204 registered projects, followed closely by Tamil Nadu with 18,915 projects. This trend signals widespread adoption of RERA regulations across various regions.

From complaints to closure

The efficiency of RERA in addressing consumer complaints is evident in the rise in the disposal of cases over the last two years. The number of resolved complaints has increased from 78,903 cases in November 2021 to approximately 1,16,300 cases by November 2023. Uttar Pradesh has taken the lead in resolving complaints, with 44,602 cases disposed of since the inception of UP-RERA. Haryana and Maharashtra follow suit, collectively accounting for 69 per cent of the resolved cases.

The momentum of RERA is further underscored by the increase in real estate agent registrations, now totalling 82,755. This reflects a significant 47 per cent growth in the past two years. “More than 1.16 lakh consumer complaints have been handled by the various state and union territories’ RERA bodies,” said Anuj Puri, Chairperson, ANAROCK Group.

Nationwide RERA implementation

Dominating the nationwide implementation of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), Maharashtra takes the lead with 36 per cent of all registered projects, spanning across 34 states and Union Territories. Following closely, Tamil Nadu claims a 16 per cent share, while Telangana and Gujarat hold substantial shares of around 7 per cent and 11 per cent, respectively. A comprehensive adoption of RERA rules is evident across almost all states and UTs, with a few exceptions. Nagaland is currently in the process of finalising its notification, while West Bengal faced a legal setback, leading to the Supreme Court’s annulment of the West Bengal Housing Industry Regulation Act in March 2022. Amongst the states and UTs, 32 have established a Real Estate Regulatory Authority, and 28 have instituted a Real Estate Appellate Tribunal. However, certain regions, including Ladakh, Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Sikkim, are yet to formalise the establishment of their regulatory authorities and tribunals.

Source: https://www.republicworld.com/business/rera-project-registrations-reach-116117-up-63-since-2021/

RERA gains massive traction; UP leads in resolving consumer complaints

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), has gained massive traction ever since it was introduced in India, particularly in handling consumer complaints. According to the data from the ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA), as of November 28, 2023, the relevant state authorities resolved up to 1,16,300 cases. Out of this, 38 per cent of the cases were resolved in Uttar Pradesh alone, followed by Haryana (18 per cent) and Maharashtra (13 per cent). The three states cumulatively accounted for nearly 69 per cent of the total disposed cases under RERA in the country.

Registrations for projects and real estate agents under RERA have also been increasing steadily. Almost 1,16,117 projects and 82,755 real estate brokers nationwide were registered under RERA as of November 28, 2023. Approximately, 71,307 projects and 56,177 real estate agents were registered over the same period in 2021. This represents a 63 per cent and 47 per cent growth, respectively, over the previous two years.

“Resolving home buyer concerns is one of the main functions RERA has been demonstrably fulfilling. More than 1.16 lakh consumer complaints have been handled by various state and Union territories. Over the last two years, the pace of project and real estate agent registrations has not slowed down. In fact, over the past two years, project registrations have increased dramatically by 63 per cent. Also, RERA authorities of various states and UTs have resolved over 37,397 consumer complaints in this period. Uttar Pradesh has resolved the highest number of cases. Considering how severely Noida and Greater Noida in UP had been impacted by unscrupulous players, this is noteworthy,” said Anuj Puri, chairman, ANAROCK Group.

Almost all states and UTs have notified rules under RERA, except Nagaland. West Bengal, which earlier enacted its own legislation, was challenged on this by MoHUA before the Supreme Court. In March 2022, the apex court struck down the West Bengal Housing Industry Regulation Act, 2017 (WBHIRA), observing that it overlapped with RERA. Thirty-two states and UTs have set up a real estate regulatory authority since its implementation, and of this at least 5 are interim. Ladakh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Sikkim are yet to establish RERA.

Twenty-eight states/UTs have set up real estate appellate tribunal for disposing of consumer complaints, including four as interim. Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, West Bengal and Sikkim are yet establish theirs. Regulatory authorities of 30 states/UTs have operationalized their websites under RERA provisions. Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur are under process to operationalise. Twenty-six states/UTs have appointed adjudicating officers, while 10 states/UTs i.e., Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, West Bengal, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh are yet to do so.

Source: https://www.theweek.in/news/biz-tech/2023/12/22/rera-gains-massive-traction-up-leads-in-resolving-consumer-complaints.html